Statement of CHR Spokesperson, Atty. Jacqueline Ann de Guia, on the call to reinstate the death penalty by lethal injection

Calling to reintroduce death penalty in the Philippines through lethal injection runs against two affirmations of this government during the 2020 State of the Nation Address—putting human lives above all and not dodging the obligation to fight for human rights.

Time and again, CHR has invited the government to engage in a frank and factual discussion on the ineffectiveness of death penalty in curbing crimes. We too believe that crimes must be punished. But the call for justice should not result to further violations of human rights, especially the right to life.

CHR wishes to stress that any moves to reinstate capital punishment in the country conflicts with the tenets of the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which the Philippines ratified in 2007. Bringing back death penalty will be a breach of international law.

We believe in the need for a comprehensive approach in addressing drug sale and use, as well as all other crimes, anchored on restorative justice instead of merely imposing punishments without regard for human lives and human rights. ###

Popular

SSS to roll out 3-year pension hike starting September 2025

By Anna Leah Gonzales | Philippine News Agency State-run Social Security System (SSS) said it will implement a Pension Reform Program, which features a structured,...

DOE to talk with DSWD, DILG for Lifeline Rate utilization

By Joann Villanueva | Philippine News Agency The Department of Energy (DOE) is set to discuss with other government agencies the inclusion of more Pantawid...

Zero-billing for basic accommodation in DOH hospitals applicable to everyone —Herbosa

By Brian Campued The “zero balance billing” being implemented in all Department of Health (DOH)-run hospitals across the country is applicable to everyone as long...

DepEd committed to address classroom shortage

By Brian Campued Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara on Wednesday emphasized the importance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in addressing the shortage of classrooms...